Causes

PD is caused by a loss of certain nerve cells in the brain. The loss of these cells causes a decrease in the amount of a brain chemical called dopamine. Low dopamine levels cause PD symptoms.

The brain cells may be lost because of genetic defects, the environment, or some combination of the two. A small amount of people with PD have an early-onset form. This type is caused by an inherited gene defect.

Risk Factors

PD is more common in men and in people aged 50 years and older. Other factors that increase your chance of PD include:

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. There are no tests to definitively diagnose PD. The doctor will ask many questions. This will help to rule out other causes of your symptoms.

Treatment

Currently, there are no treatments to cure PD. There are also no proven treatments to slow or stop its progression. Some medications may help to improve symptoms. Over time, the side effects of the medication may become troublesome. The medications may also lose their effectiveness.

Medications

Medications that may be used to treat PD include:

Levodopa-carbidopa

Dopamine agonists

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Anticholinergics

COMT inhibitors

Antivirals

Depression or hallucinations may also occur with PD and its treatment. Medications may be prescribed to attempt to treat these conditions. The drugs may include:

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Tricyclic antidepressants

Antipsychotics

Hip fractures
are common in those with PD. Bisphosphonates are medications that may help reduce this risk.

Constipation, drooling, and
lightheadedness when standing
are common and may improve with medications or other treatments.

Surgery

Different brain operations are available, and many more are being researched including:

Deep brain stimulation (DBS)—implanting a device to stimulate certain parts of the brain; can decrease tremor and rigidity

Thalamotomy and pallidotomy—destroying certain areas of the brain to improve tremor when medication does not work (not as common as deep brain stimulation)

Nerve-cell transplants (research only)—to increase amount of dopamine made in the brain

Physical Therapy

Therapy can improve muscle tone, strength, and balance. It includes exercises and stretches. There is also evidence that alternative therapies, such as tai chi, yoga, or dance, may be beneficial.

Psychological Support

Consider joining a support group with other people with PD. It will help to learn how others are learning to live with the challenges of PD.

Cognitive Training

Cognitive training works on aspects of the brain that control certain functions so they can be performed better in daily life. Activities are meant to promote and increase brain fitness through learning or exercises. It works best in conjunction with other healthy lifestyle habits. Some people with Parkinson's disease have seen improvements in reasoning, problem solving, processing speed, and working memory.